Utilization of LNG cold energy for refrigerated terminal

Lithuanian LNG cluster has established the consortium to develop a technology solution that would allow utilization of LNG’s cold energy for refrigerated terminal energy needs.

Temperature of LNG in its liquid state is -162°C. When warmed, LNG changes to gaseous state. Such process which is called regasification generates large amounts of cold energy which, in the event of a standard regasification process, is considered as the by-product, i.e. is not utilized.

Members of Lithuanian LNG cluster AB Vakarų laivų gamykla, Emerson, and AB Klaipėdos nafta as well as its partners Valcon and Ketonas have joined their professional efforts to develop a technology solution that would allow utilization of cold energy for refrigeration of terminals. With the start of viewing LNG as the great potential of energy for cooling, this innovation would enable expanding the range of LNG utilization.

Such new solution would significantly improve the regasification economy and facilitate introduction of small scale regasification stations at the facilities with specific cold energy needs. The technology would allow for eco-efficient utilization of cold energy making the best use of what otherwise would be simply wasted. Moreover, the solution would assist in achieving the economically attractive gas yields. Utilization of cold energy is the electricity saving measure which, in turn, has a direct impact on the price of re-gasified LNG.

This utilization of cold energy is a promising step not only in respect of the refrigerated terminals. The opportunity is also seen in respect of the data center cooling systems. Besides, the solution could assist for diverse entertainment and recreational facilities such as ice arenas, and indoor ski slopes. Furthermore, LNG’s cold energy is applied on a global scale in the food industry and pharmacy for the cold degradation processes.

Presently, the United Arab Emirates develop the technology which enables utilization of cold energy for recycling of used car tires which is more efficient, if cooled up.

Klaipėda University, the member of LNG cluster. jointly with AB Klaipėdos nafta and the partner Klaipėda Stevedoring Company BEGA have brought together their engineering and technology resources aimed at design and production of LNG-powered rail locomotive. This advanced transport would be used for internal logistics of freight wagons.

LNG opens a window of opportunity for the clean fuel uses in the rail sector. LNG burns significantly cleaner than diesel fuel and, as regards the pollution, LNG contains no sulfur, nitrogen oxide, and produce lower emissions of CO2. When it burns, practically no solid particles being the main reason of smog are produced.

The new solution, as presumed, would also allow achieving the substantial economic results. The assumption is based on experience of the Polish colleagues with LNG-powered trailers evidencing that consumption of fuel by LNG-powered trucks travelling on fixed routes may be by 40 percent less.

The project currently is under development, with the scientists from Klaipėda University simulating the operation modes of LNG-powered locomotive to precisely evaluate all economic and environmental characteristics.